Distinguished past pupil returns to Castletown’ NS

It’s been an interesting 12 months for Irish National Teachers’ Organisation (INTO) president Mary Magner, who relinquishes her chain of office in a couple of weeks. Her tenure coincided with the Covid-19 outbreak and, as a result, the bulk of her official duties have been carried out virtually.

Before stepping down and returning to full time duty as principal of Scoil Chroi Iosa in Blarney, Mary paid a number of courtesy calls to local national schools, most notably to where her education started - that being Castletownroche National School.

Mary said she was delighted to be back, albeit in Covid-19 times. Maintaining social distance at all times, Mary paid tribute to principal Eoin Bracken and his hardworking staff. She went on to say that all national schools were doing an exceptional job in a very challenging environment.

For his part, Principal Bracken said it was an honour to welcome Mary, who he described as a tireless advocate for the teaching profession. In a socially distanced presentation, Mary received a bouquet of flowers to mark the occasion.

FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH

Castle town roche National School did a lot of planning in advance of what’s been a very successful re-opening, following the enforced and prolonged closure of schools due to Covid restrictions. After an extended break, everyone is really happy to be back and it’s been a case of full steam ahead for teachers, secretarial staff and students.

While the school was closed for several weeks, work has still been going on with a new security/safety fence erected. Work is also well advanced on a sensory space that pupils will derive great benefit from. As with every school in the country, finance is always on the agenda and a socially distanced fundraiser took place on St Patrick’s Day. OPEN FOR ENROLMENT

There’s been a healthy increase in pupil numbers over the last few years and the hope is, this trend will continue. There’s always room for more and the school is already looking forward to welcoming a new group of junior infants in September. Those who intend enrolling are welcome to contact the school.

(Pic: John Ahern) Outgoing INTO President, Mary Magner, a past pupil of Castletownroche National School, pictured with staff and BOM representatives, during last week’s courtesy call.

(Pic: John Ahern) Junior infants, Kevin and Annie, making a socially distanced presentation to Mary Magner on the occasion of her visit to Castletownroche National School last week - on the left is principal, Eoin Bracken.

(Pic: John Ahern) Principal Eoin Bracken, in front of the recently erected fencing in the grounds of Castletownroche National School.